President Irfaan Ali addressed officers of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on the importance of recognizing geopolitical dynamics in the region, emphasizing the need for critical analysis amid what he termed “philosophical chess play.” He identified the United States (US) as a crucial “strategic partner” for Guyana.

During the opening of the GDF’s 2025 Annual Officers’ Conference, President Ali urged military personnel to engage in critical thinking, enabling them to provide informed advice by considering various global factors. He warned that being entrenched in a specific philosophical viewpoint could expose the country to risks.

While he refrained from naming specific regional players, his remarks came at a time when several Caribbean leaders maintain close ties with Venezuela, a country facing international scrutiny for its electoral integrity under President Nicolas Maduro. This context is further complicated by recent diplomatic interactions between the US and Venezuela, including the release of three Americans from a Venezuelan prison following talks between US officials and Maduro.

Ali characterized the US as “one of our most important strategic partners,” highlighting its renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere and the implications of its border security and asset protection strategies. He noted that these developments could affect migration patterns as individuals seek new economic opportunities, presenting both challenges and prospects for the region.

The President called on the GDF to leverage its National Defence Institute (NDI) to enhance understanding of regional issues and to develop innovative solutions. He also emphasized the need for the military to intensify efforts against transnational criminal networks, stressing that such activities should not find refuge in Guyana.